Why the Jellycat Hype is Still Going Strong in 2026
If you have spent any time on social media lately, you have likely seen the quirky, smiling faces of Jellycat plushies. From the classic bashful bunnies to the eccentric 'Amuseables' line featuring everything from sourdough loaves to potted succulents, these toys have transcended being mere children's playthings to become high-demand collectibles for adults in New Zealand and across the globe. In 2026, the obsession has only intensified, with limited-edition releases selling out in minutes.
However, for fans living in New Zealand, the 'Kiwi Tax' is very real. Local retail prices for these premium plushies are often significantly higher than those in the United States. Furthermore, many of the most sought-after designs never even reach New Zealand shores. This is why savvy collectors are turning to the US market to find better deals and a much wider selection.
The Secret to Saving: Why Shop in the USA?
Shopping for Jellycat in the US offers three distinct financial advantages. First, the sheer volume of retailers—from high-end department stores like Nordstrom to specialized toy boutiques—means more frequent sales and clearance events. Second, the US often receives exclusive releases that are never distributed internationally. Third, by using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway, you can access a US-based shipping address, often in a tax-free state, which immediately slashes the cost of your purchase compared to paying high international shipping fees directly from a retailer.
Top US Stores for Jellycat Deals in 2026
- Nordstrom: Known for carrying a massive variety and offering seasonal sales.
- Neiman Marcus: Great for finding the more 'luxurious' or larger Jellycat models.
- The Official Jellycat US Store: The best place for the newest 2026 drops.
- Amazon US: Often features competitive pricing, though you must verify the seller's authenticity.
How to Get Your Jellycat to New Zealand
Many US retailers either don't ship to New Zealand or charge exorbitant rates for international delivery. The most cost-effective way to shop is to use a US address provided by a forwarding service. If you are new to this, we recommend checking out this how it works step-by-step guide to understand the process of receiving, storing, and forwarding your packages.
Once your items arrive at your US suite, you can manage your shipments easily. To avoid any surprises, it is always a good idea to use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost before you hit the checkout button. This allows you to see exactly how much you are saving by shopping abroad.
Maximizing Your Savings with Smart Shipping
To truly embrace the 'Money Saver' angle, you should look into package consolidation. Instead of shipping one plushie at a time, wait for several orders to arrive at your US address and ship them all at once. This significantly reduces the 'per-item' shipping cost. Additionally, frequent shoppers should look into Prime membership benefits, which often include discounted shipping rates and extended storage times, making it even cheaper to build your collection over several weeks.
What if the Store Doesn't Accept My NZ Credit Card?
Occasionally, US stores may decline international credit cards or require a US billing address. In these instances, you don't have to miss out on that rare 2026 anniversary edition plushie. You can use the BuyForMe service, where an assisted purchase specialist handles the transaction for you, ensuring you get your items without the technical headache.
Important Considerations for New Zealand Imports
Before you start your shopping spree, it is important to be aware of local regulations. While plush toys are generally safe to import, you should always check the list of prohibited items to ensure no restricted materials (like certain organic fillers sometimes found in weighted toys) are included in your shipment.
| Factor | Buying Locally (NZ) | Buying from US (via comGateway) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | High (Retail Markup) | Lower (US MSRP + Sales) |
| Availability | Limited Stock | Full Catalog Access |
| Exclusives | Rarely Available | Easy Access |
| Shipping Time | 1-5 Days | 5-10 Days (Express) |
Regarding New Zealand Customs: As of 2026, the GST rules for low-value goods remain in effect. Most US retailers will collect the 15% GST at the point of sale if they meet certain turnover thresholds, or it may be calculated during the forwarding process. Even with GST, the lower base price in the US often makes the total cost significantly cheaper than buying from a local boutique.
Final Thoughts
Collecting Jellycat doesn't have to break the bank. By leveraging the US market and using a strategic shipping partner, you can enjoy the latest 2026 designs at a fraction of the local price. Start by browsing your favorite US stores today, and remember to consolidate your shipments to keep those shipping costs as low as possible.
